Shift valve Solenoid SL (E) location?

[awmccready]

'97 Camry LE 4 cyl automatic - a few days after a garage replaced a slipping tranny with a used one (40K miles), a check engine code PO770, defective or malfunctioning valve solenoid E, occurred. Research and a dealer said this was solenoid SL. My generic toyota manual picture shows this outside of the front-left side of the transmission, to the left (driver's side) of the park/neutral switch.

This is supposed to be the shift "lock up" solenoid. At above 50 -55 mph it opens the valve that makes the torque converter "lock up".

There is a separate code, PO773, which didn't occur, that indicates the solenoid is shorted or open.

However, when I tried to remove this solenoid to clean and check it, it was still connected, I presume, through wires that I couldn't see, so I re-attached it.

Is this the SL solenoid valve at this location or just a plug through which the wires pass through to the internal valve?

Where can I find reliable diagrams and/or instructions for removing/testing/cleaning/replacing this solenoid?

Where/how can I tap into the 2 external wires going to the solenoid to check continuity and/or resistance?

Because of the cost to date, I can't afford at this time to replace this transmission again. In the meantime, I will drop the oil pan and look for traces of metal pieces/powder and replace the filter and fluid, just in case. While I’m in there, if I can figure out how to get to that solenoid SL (if it is internal), I’ll replace/repair/clean/check it and any others that are worthwhile.

Thanks for any help.

[awmccready]

According to
dandeman
00 4Runner 4x4, 06 Prius

at:
http://www.toyotanation.com/forum/showthread.php?t=365894
"
Specifically, the PO770 is pointing to a Shift Solenoid "E" Valve SL malfunction. This valve controls the torque converter lock up clutch function.

Error Detection Logic (for PO770) :
Lock up (torque converter lock up clutch) does not occur when driving in the lock-up range (normal driving at /above 50mph), or lock-up remains ON in the lock-up off speed range.

Trouble Area:
The possible troubles are:
1) Shift Solenoid valve SL is stuck open or closed.
2) Valve body is blocked up or stuck.
3) Lock-up clutch problem.

Reference: Factory Service Manual Volume 1
"

[JohnGD]

This should be right behind the neutral safety switch.

[awmccready]

Thanks.

Based on your advice, I finally found a diagram in my service manual that shows 2 solenoid "connectors/plugs" right by the park/neutral switch. Facing the transmission from the front of the car, is the solenoid SL connector the one on the left above the park-neutral switch or the other to the right? What is the other connector for? Solenoids 1 & 2 inside the transmission? (My assumption is the SL solenoid connector is on the left and connectors for 1 & 2 are on the right.)

Also, is/are there a plug release clip(s) on the solenoid SL connector? If so, will a flat blade screwdrive work? Or does the whole solenoid SL valve and connector come away from the transmission?

It looks as though I must remove the park/neutral switch to get to solenoid SL. Is that correct?

Thanks.

[gt limited]

i pull out mines